CONFIDENTIAL A
SUPPLEMENTARY QUESTIONS
1.
2.
3.
4.
•
5.
HOW LONG TO REINFORCE FROM BRUNEI?
WHAT REINFORCEMENTS ARE AVAILABLE FOR HONG KONG OTHER THAN THE BRUNEI
WHAT LEVEL OF REINFORCEMENT IS ENVISAGED BY YOUR
PRESENT CONTINGENCY PLANS?
DOES THE HONG KONG GARRISON
HAVE ANY STRATEGIC ROLE BEYOND HONG KONG ITSELF?
CONTINGENCY PLANS IN EVENT OF CHINESE INVASION?
It would depend on circumstances;
but elements of the garrison could
arrive within 24 hours.
We would deploy forces from the
UK. The Spearhead battalion is
on 72 hours notice to move, other
reinforcements would be available
as necessary._7
We would reinforce as necessary.
If Pressed: 3 battalions together
with appropriate supporting
elements._7
No.
However, it is the UK's only
substantial military force in
the Far East and can therefore be
used regionally as appropriate.
For example, elements of the
garrison regularly take part in
exercises under the auspices of
the Five Power Defence Arrangements.
I am not sure that it is useful
to speculate on such a hypothetical
situation. Our relations with
the Peoples Republic of China are
good and we have a mutual interest
in the stability and prosperity
of Hong Kong.
CONFIDENTIAL